Food

National Free Slurpee Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

The Slurpee, invented by Omar Knedlik, was originally known as ICEE. As with many other significant inventions, it was discovered by accident. When one of Knedlick's soda fountains failed, he was forced to store his sodas in the freezer to keep them cool.

The 11th of July is National Free Slurpee Day, and we cannot wait to get our sugar dose while beating the heat for free. The day was first celebrated by 7-Eleven in 2002, but the beloved frozen delicacy has been around since the late 1950s. There are more than 300 different Slurpee flavours, ranging from sweet (Vanilla, 7-Lemon) to acidic (Warhead, acidic Apple) to exotic (Mango, Lychee).

The background of National Free Slurpee Day

The Slurpee, invented by Omar Knedlik, was originally known as ICEE. As with many other significant inventions, it was discovered by accident. When one of Knedlick’s soda fountains failed, he was forced to store his sodas in the freezer to keep them cool. Customers enjoyed the resulting soda slush, which prompted Knedlick to construct a machine that could freeze carbonated beverages.

7-Eleven, recognising the success of the ICEE, entered into a licencing agreement with Knedlick in 1965 to market the product under a different name; one that would be sold exclusively in its stores. The Slurpee was officially introduced in 1966. The appellation was created by a marketing executive in reference to the sound it makes when consumed.

By the spring of 1967, Slurpee machines were installed in every 7-Eleven store in the United States. To sustain the growing Slurpee craze, 7-Eleven would name its new flavours in a provocative, if not explicit, manner. Novelty names such as Pink Fink, Moonshine, Sticky Icky, Gully Washer, and Adults Only were introduced to the expanding flavour list.

On July 11, 2002, 7-Eleven commemorated its 75th birthday by offering free Slurpees to customers, establishing the first official National Free Slurpee Day.

As the name of the day suggests, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., you can visit a participating 7-Eleven and receive a free 12-ounce Slurpee (while supplies last). Arrive early, as everyone in the know will undoubtedly desire a complimentary Slurpee. Do you really want to lose out on a FREE Slurpee from 7-Eleven?

NATIONAL FREE SLURPEE DAY ACTIVITIES

Go out and acquire one

This is an obvious choice. You can receive a free Slurpee by walking, running, bicycling, or driving to the nearest 7-Eleven between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. It literally does not cost anything.

Sample a new flavour

With over 300 flavours and counting, Slurpees are sure to satisfy even the most discriminating palates. Consider substituting your customary Coke or Cherry for a Purple S-cream or a Slurpuccino this year. Variety adds flavour to existence.

Indulge your inner nerd

7-Eleven has partnered with your favourite movies, comics and modern culture to create flavours such as Kryptonite Ice and Darth Dew. Satisfy your inner devotee or fangirl this summer with a StraberrWii Banana or Wonka Laffy Taffy Slurpee.

4 FUN FACTS ABOUT SLURPEES

Canadians purchase an average of 30 million Slurpees per year, making them the largest Slurpee market in the globe.

As part of a promotion for the 2007 “The Simpsons” film, 7-Eleven renamed Slurpees “Squishees” (the Simpsons universe equivalent) and sold them in collectors containers.

7-Eleven commissioned the spoon straw because consumers had difficulty sucking up the Slurpee from the bottom of the cup.

Even though “brain freeze” began as a flippant term, 7-Eleven recognised its marketing potential and trademarked it.